Pure Poison
Simon Pulse 1988
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- political intrigue
- reputation and truth
- deception and betrayal
- media power and ethics
- courage under pressure
- friendship and teamwork
- justice
- female empowerment
About this book
When a powerful U.S. senator hires Nancy to stop a ruthless gossip columnist from ruining her career, the teen sleuth is pulled into Washington’s high-stakes world. Secrets, scandals, and political pressure make every clue feel dangerous. With help from her friends, Nancy follows the trail from smoky newsrooms to Capitol corridors. Fast-paced and twisty, this mystery appeals to readers who enjoy smart, contemporary whodunits with a fearless heroine.
Setting: modern-day Washington, D.C., in political and media circles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pure Poison right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Pure Poison. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include political intrigue, reputation and truth, deception and betrayal.
How long does it take to read Pure Poison?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, Pure Poison takes around 4.5h to finish. The book has 45,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Pure Poison have an AR quiz?
Yes — Pure Poison has an AR quiz available, worth 6 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Pure Poison?
Pure Poison has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.